Warner explodes into top 15

Australia opening batsman David Warner has shot into a career-highest position on the Reliance ICC Player Test Rankings after a superb start to the Commonwealth Bank Ashes Series.

In his four innings in Brisbane and Adelaide, Warner has made scores of 49, 124, 29 and 83 not out, which has seen him climb three places into 14th.

The elevation represents a turnaround for the 27-year-old that has mirrored the Australian side as a whole. After a forgettable winter, Warner has enjoyed a splendid run of form with New South Wales and Australia, citing the influence of ironwoman girlfriend Candice Falzon as being critical to his recent success.

Australia captain Michael Clarke meanwhile, moves up to third position after consecutive Ashes hundreds. Clarke trails only South Africans AB de Villiers (first) and Hashim Amla on the list, while wicketkeeper-batsman Brad Haddin jumps eight places into 34th.